Cleaning and preventing mould on your projects

Mould. It’s the stubborn, unsightly guest that nobody invited – but once it moves in, it can be tough to kick out. Whether you’re battling black mould under paint, fighting off bathroom mould on the ceiling, or trying to get rid of mould on wood, we’ve got the tools, products and know-how to help.

Lets break it down: how mould forms, how it messes with your paint, and most importantly – how to remove it and stop it from coming back. Plus, we’ll highlight some of the best mould cleaners and preventative solutions available at Paint World.

How does mould form and damage paint?

Mould thrives in damp, poorly ventilated areas. Bathrooms, laundries, and kitchens are classic problem spots. But it’s not just looks – mould can weaken paint, cause peeling, and leave stubborn stains. Even worse, it can hide under the paint, creating that dreaded black mould under paint situation.

Moisture is the main culprit. Leaky pipes, poor ventilation or just good ol’ humidity can all invite mould to the party. And once it’s there, your fresh white walls can quickly turn into a speckled mess.

Mould in the home: Common problem areas

Laundries and bathrooms

Bathrooms and laundries are notorious for bathroom ceiling mould and shower mould thanks to steam, condensation, and poor ventilation. These damp spaces need more than a quick wipe-down—they need products built to withstand moisture.

• Clean first: Use a shower or mould cleaner or bathroom mould cleaner to remove surface mould.
• Paint smart: Use Zinsser Perma-White, a moisture-resistant, mould-proof paint designed for humid areas like bathrooms and laundries.
• Prevent future mould: Mix in IQuip mould blocker for extra protection in hot, humid environments.

Kitchen Mould

You might not think of the kitchen as a damp zone, but heat from cooking and steam from dishwashing can build up quickly. Mould loves hiding under cabinets, behind splashbacks, and in corners.

• Clean and maintain: Wipe down surfaces regularly with a quality mould remover to keep kitchen surfaces fresh and prevent mould from creeping into hard-to-reach spots.
• Paint for protection: Use Zinsser Perma-White to keep your kitchen walls crisp and mould-free.

Cleaning mould

How to remove mould from walls

Spray the affected area with a trusted mould remover, let it sit, and wipe it away with a damp cloth. For stubborn spots, a soft scrub might be needed. Always wear gloves and a mask—mould spores aren’t your friend.

How to remove black mould

Black mould is tougher and can stain. Scrub with a strong mould cleaner solution. If the mould has crept under the paint, you may need to scrape and reapply paint after treating the area.

Mould cleaning products

Forget the old mould cleaner vinegar trick—while it’s a classic, it’s not always the most effective. For serious jobs, you need serious products that clean, seal, and defend.

These powerhouse products will make mould removal quick and easy:

• iQuip IQ175 Mould Blocker Additive (Tropical Strength) – Mix this into your paint for long-term mould defence, especially in humid environments.
• Prep Mould Defence – A mould-inhibiting additive. Mix it into paint, timber oils, stains, grout and more to prevent mould growth before it starts – ideal for moisture-prone areas.
• Watertite Hydraulic Cement – Seals and waterproofs cracks to stop moisture and prevent future mould problems.

Check out our full range of prep products to give your surface the perfect foundation before painting.

Painting over mould surfaces

Painting over mould is a big no-no unless you prep correctly. Otherwise, you’re just sealing in the problem.

Preparation

• Clean thoroughly with a mould cleaner.
• Sand and smooth rough patches.
• Apply a moisture-resistant primer.

Painting

Use a mould-resistant paint like Zinsser Perma-White. Designed for kitchens, bathrooms, and high-humidity areas, this paint is a game-changer. Explore the full Zinsser range for top-tier primers and paints that combat moisture and mould.

Preventing mould

Fix water leaks and moisture issues

Leaks and damp patches = mould’s paradise. Seal cracks and waterproof surfaces using Watertite Hydraulic Cement.

Improve ventilation

Fans and open windows reduce humidity. For bathrooms, extractor fans are a must.

Use protective coatings and paint

Mix in iQuip Mould Blocker Additive with your paint for an extra layer of mould defence, especially in humid climates. Alternatively, opt for Zinsser Perma-White, which is specially formulated to keep mould at bay.

FAQs

What’s the best mould cleaner? A high-strength mould remover or bathroom mould cleaner is essential. Vinegar and clove oil can help for light jobs, but a commercial product is often the best mould cleaner for tough spots.

Can you paint over mould? No – mould removal is essential first. Once clean, use a moisture-resistant primer and finish with a mould-resistant paint like Zinsser Perma-White to prevent future growth.

How do you get rid of mould on wood? Clean with a mould cleaner, let it dry thoroughly, and then apply a protective finish with Prep Mould Defence mixed into your paint, oil, or sealant. Seal any gaps with Watertite Hydraulic Cement to block moisture for good.

Take back your surfaces: Shop mould solutions at Paint World

Don’t let mould ruin your next paint project. From high-strength mould defence additives to waterproof primers, Paint World has everything you need to keep your surfaces looking fresh and protected.

Explore our full range of Zinsser primers and paints and prep products to get you started. Your mould-free future starts now.